One of the most iconic pieces in the world and the most iconic piece in Bristol, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a Grade I listed structure, which spans the Avon Gorge and River Avon, connecting Bristol to Somerset. The bridge gets thousands of visitors each year, all of whom sit and marvel at the wonderful site as the bridge suspends unadulterated from one side to the other.

The bridge began construction in 1831 and was designed by William Henry Barlow (a 19th century civil engineer whose work includes the midlands railway terminus at St Pancras) and John Hawkshaw (a 19th century civil engineers whose work includes the Severn tunnel). It was the world renowned mechanical and civil engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who had paved the way with his initial designs for the bridge, however, given the improvements in the design by both Barlow and Hawkshaw, they are recognised as the designers and builders of the iconic suspension bridge in Bristol. Locally, Bristolians believe Brunel was the real designer for the bridge.​Building the bridge was not easy. Not too long after construction had started, the whole project was abandoned due to the Bristol riots, which was as a result of the rejection of a parliamentary vote that was meant to help growing cities such as Bristol from the rotten conditions. Work on the bridge didn't recommence till 1862, where after Brunel's passing in 1859, his colleagues in the Institution of Civil Engineers believed completing the bridge would be the perfect memorial for him.

This is where Barlow and Hawkshaw took over, they complete redesigned the bridge to take into account improvements in construction techniques. By 1864 the bridge was complete. The Clifton bridge was designed originally for at most traffic from horse drawn carriages, however, since its humble beginnings it still is able to meet the busy demands of 21st century life, such as traffic from heavy cars and buses.

What makes the bridge so special is the spectacular views you are able to get at the top of the gorge that looks right across Bristol and further afield. Arguably, the best time of year to go is during the summer months, when the days are long, the sunset is warm and the wind is low. The sun sets perfectly on-top of Bristol to magnify the cities beauty.

Apart from the views, the design and quality of the construction of the bridge is second to none. Given that it was completed in the 19th century and it is still able to keep up with the demands of present day, is testament to quality workmanship, amazing design and ingenuity. The bridge is really a iconic piece that puts Bristol on the map.